Over the past 50 years, Dungeons & Dragons has been played by more than 50 million people. It has left a lasting impact on the world of gaming and pop culture, starting as a nice hobby and evolving into a worldwide phenomenon. Its interesting gameplay, immersive storytelling and detailed worlds have become the standard for tabletop gaming. As it enters its 50th year, we at Wayland are ready to celebrate and continue the legacy of collaborative storytelling and exploring its magical realms!

A number of companies have joined forces with Wizards of the Coast to celebrate the 50th anniversary, and we’ve compiled a list of the ones we’re most excited about below.

External Collaborations

Celebrating 50 Years With LEGO

LEGO® and Wizards of the Coast recently launched Dungeons & Dragons: Red Dragon’s Tale, which was born from a LEGO Ideas Contest. This set, designed by Lucas Bolt (BoltBuilds), boasts 3,745 pieces and four distinct play zones that can be customised with interchangeable elements. These areas include the Witches Tower with a lab and trap door, the Tavern for planning adventures, the Dungeon with its monsters and treasures, and the Crypt filled with treasures and danger. The set also introduces six new D&D LEGO minifigures and iconic creatures like the red dragon and beholder.

Books

There are a number of books scheduled for release to coincide with the 50th anniversary of Dungeons and Dragons: some non-fiction and some further expanding the game. We’ve made a list of everything to look forward to here!

Vecna: Eve of Ruin

Due to release in May 2024, this new campaign will have players progress from Level 10 to 20 as they travel through the multiverse and face down the terrifying arch-lich Vecna. According to Wizards of the Coast, the adventure will feature well-known characters and locations from all eras of D&D history.

The Making of Original Dungeons & Dragons: 1970-1977

Advertised to be a “retrospective historical account” of the beginning of Dungeons & Dragons, this new non-fiction book boasts original artwork, manuscript annotations, playtest materials and previously undiscovered correspondence between D&D co-creators Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson. All information in the book has been compiled by game historian Jon Peterson and will feature a full version of the original rules, including random tables, page scans and concept art. Due to be released in June 2024, we can’t wait to read all about the creation of D&D!

Quests from the Infinite Staircase

Coming in July 2024, the upcoming book Quests from the Infinite Staircase will feature a collection of six classic D&D adventures updated to the new 5th edition rules. The book will also detail additional lore around the legendary “Infinite Staircase,” which allows individuals to traverse the multiverse. According to Wizards of the Coast, the book will also introduce a new character named Nafas, a powerful genie who hears wishes made throughout the multiverse and recruits heroes to fulfil them.

2024 Player's Handbook

Based on new rules materials from the ongoing One D&D Playtest, the new Player’s Handbook will be a retooling of the existing D&D fifth edition rules and is designed to make the game easier to learn and faster to play. The new PHB will include the 12 standard classes, along with 48 subclasses and 144 character background options. While it will be completely backwards compatible with all existing 5e materials, there are a number of new rules being added, including tweaks to classes, spells, races and the introduction of a new “weapons mastery” system that’s designed to make combat more cinematic.

2024 Dungeon Master's Guide

Another key part of the ongoing One D&D Playtest, the new 2024 Dungeon Master’s Guide is designed to help both new and experienced DMs get up and running more quickly. The book will feature an enhanced content structure, new features (such as the Bastion system) and even a complete campaign world. It’s also expected to include more tips and tricks for novice DMs looking to cut their teeth on their very first adventure.

2025 Monster Manual

The third part of the 2024 Core Rules update for fifth edition, the new Monster Manual, will feature over 500 individual creatures, with tweaks made to better incorporate the new 5e rules updates and many of the elements included in third-party D&D monster books. In addition to changes to Monster Challenge Ratings (CR), the book will also feature new monster lore and backgrounds, new artwork and the introduction of new monster “families.”

Celebrate In Style

Celebrate 50 years of bold adventure with Dungeons & Dragons 50th Anniversary accessories! With striking gold details and iconic D&D symbols, these premium accessories are the perfect addition to every tabletop campaign. And even better - you can pre-order them now directly from our website!

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